WESTERN COTTONMOUTH FACTS

DescriptionThe Western Cottonmouth is the smallest of the three subspecies of Cottonmouth. It is similar to the Eastern Cottonmouth, A. p. piscivorus and the Florida Cottonmouth, A. p. conanti, except that they tend to become darker at a younger age. It does not usually have a light line bordering the dark cheek strip (this line is clearly defined in A. p. conanti and less obvious in A. p. piscivorus). Younger snakes have 10 to 15 dark cross bands.

BreedingThis species is ovoviviparous. Females give birth to 3-12 young (sometimes up to 16) in August or September. Newborn snakes are 15cm - 28 cm long

RangeThe Western Cottonmouth is found from southern Alabama along coast of the Gulf of Mexico to Texas, and north to Oklahoma, Missouri, Illinois and Indiana

NotesCottonmouths get their name from the white lining of the mouth cavity. When approached they may try to escape, but will put on a threat display if confronted. They are venomous and can give a dangerous bite. Bites can cause severe bleeding and damage to tissue. If bitten, seek immediate medical attention. Young cottonmouths have fully functional fangs and are also dangerous.